Things To Do
in Nepal
Nepal is a landlocked country in South Asia, nestled in the Himalayas between China to the north and India to the south, east, and west. It is renowned for its diverse geography, including fertile plains, subalpine forested hills, and eight of the world's ten tallest mountains, including Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth.
This culturally rich country is known for its ancient history, vibrant traditions, and as a major destination for mountaineers, trekkers, and those interested in exploring its spiritual heritage.
- "Timi lai kasto chha?" - How are you?
- "Dhanyabad" - Thank you
- "Ma sanchai chhu" - I am fine
- "Kripaya" - Please
- "Tapaiko naam ke ho?" - What is your name?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Swayambhunath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Spend some time observing the monkeys and local worshippers at this sacred place.
Head to the bustling Thamel district for lunch and some shopping. Explore local crafts, souvenirs, and try some delicious Nepali cuisine.
As the sun sets, visit the Boudhanath Stupa, one of the largest in the world. Spend your evening sipping tea at a nearby café while watching the locals perform their rituals.
Begin your morning at Phewa Lake, where you can rent a canoe and paddle across the serene waters. Enjoy the stunning views of the Annapurna mountain range in the backdrop.
After lunch, visit the World Peace Pagoda, a stunning stupa that offers breathtaking views of the lake and hills. Take a leisurely hike back down, stopping for photos along the way.
Stroll along the lakeside promenade at sunset. Enjoy a quiet dinner at one of the many lakeside restaurants, sampling local delicacies.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity, offering a unique experience for travelers.
- Home to some of the world's highest peaks, including Mount Everest, attracting trekkers and climbers.
- Affordable living costs, making it accessible for both locals and tourists.
- Friendly and hospitable people, known for their warm welcome.
- Breathtaking natural beauty, including mountains, hills, and plains.
- Opportunities for adventure tourism, such as trekking, rafting, and wildlife safaris.
- Infrastructure challenges, including limited transportation options and unreliable internet access.
- Political instability and occasional strikes can disrupt daily life and tourism.
- Natural disasters, such as earthquakes and landslides, pose risks to safety.
- Healthcare facilities may be lacking in rural areas and can be basic in cities.
- Environmental issues, including deforestation and pollution, can affect quality of life.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors, leading to high youth unemployment.
Best Activities in Nepal
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the breathtaking trails and majestic mountains of the Himalayas while immersing yourself in the rich culture and landscapes of Nepal.
Experience thrilling whitewater rafting adventures on the rivers of Nepal, offering a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement and stunning natural scenery.
Embark on a wildlife-filled journey through the lush jungles of Chitwan National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna including the majestic Bengal tiger and one-horned rhinoceros.
Soar through the skies and soak in breathtaking aerial vistas of the Pokhara Valley and the Annapurna Range while indulging in the exhilarating adventure of paragliding.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nepal with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nepal
Visit one of these nice places.
Stunning views of the world's tallest mountain and surrounding Himalayas.
Beautiful lakeside city with views of the Annapurna mountain range and serene landscapes.
Scenic hill station offering panoramic views of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest on clear days.
Picturesque hilltop town with sweeping views of the Himalayas and traditional Newari architecture.
Food in Nepal
Nepal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup (dal), served with steamed rice (bhat), and often accompanied by vegetables, pickles, and sometimes meat.
Must-Try!
These popular dumplings are typically filled with minced meat or vegetables, then steamed or fried, and are commonly served with a spicy dipping sauce.
Try local Newari dishes such as Yomari (steamed dumplings filled with sweetened sesame seeds), Bara (black lentil patties), and Choila (spiced and grilled meat). Indulge in a Newari feast at traditional Newari restaurants in Kathmandu's old town.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nepal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Kathmandu, this bustling market offers a wide array of street food options, fresh produce, and local snacks such as chatpate (spicy fruit and snack mix) and sel roti (traditional rice donuts).
Famous for its street food stalls, this vibrant square in Kathmandu is an ideal spot to sample local delicacies like samosas, grilled meats, and assorted chaats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nepal, it is common to greet others with the traditional 'Namaste' gesture, which involves joining the palms of the hands together and bowing slightly. This is a sign of respect and is widely used in social interactions.
When visiting religious sites or participating in traditional events, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully. This often means covering shoulders and legs, and removing footwear before entering the premises.
Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Nepalese culture. It is common to address elders using respectful terms and to show deference to their wisdom and experience.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nepal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nepal
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Nepal, but it is appreciated in the hospitality industry. It is not expected, but if you receive exceptional service, a small tip is a gesture of appreciation.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Nepal, especially in rural areas. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted in urban areas, but it is still advisable to carry cash. Mobile payment systems are also gaining popularity in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nepal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nepal, with blooming rhododendrons and clear skies. Good for trekking and mountaineering.
Monsoon season with heavy rainfall, not recommended for trekking due to muddy trails and limited mountain views.
Excellent time to visit Nepal, with clear skies, mild temperatures, and festive atmosphere. Peak season for trekking and outdoor activities.
Cold weather in the mountains, but lower altitudes offer pleasant temperatures. Good for cultural tours and wildlife viewing.
Nepal at Night
Hiking in Nepal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic trekking route that takes you around the Annapurna mountain range, offering stunning views of the peaks, diverse landscapes, and a chance to experience local culture.
A famous trekking destination that allows adventurers to reach the base of the world's highest mountain, Mount Everest, while experiencing breathtaking views and rich Sherpa culture.
A beautiful trekking area located north of Kathmandu, known for its lush forests, stunning mountain scenery, and unique Tamang culture.
A sacred alpine lake located in Langtang National Park, known for its beauty and religious significance, often visited by trekkers and pilgrims alike.
A popular viewpoint for sunrise over the Annapurna range, easily accessible from Ghorepani, making it perfect for shorter treks.
The largest lake in Nepal, located in Rara National Park, known for its stunning blue color and serene surroundings, ideal for both hiking and nature lovers.
A less crowded trekking destination taking you to the base camp of Makalu, the fifth highest peak in the world, featuring diverse flora and fauna.
The birthplace of Lord Buddha, where you can hike around the sacred site that includes multiple monasteries, gardens, and historical significance.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nepal through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Nepal by plane.
The main international airport in Nepal, located in Kathmandu.
Located in Delhi, India, this is one of the busiest airports in the region.
Located in Mumbai, India, it is one of the major international airports in India.
Located in Kolkata, India, this airport serves as a gateway for flights to the northeastern region of India and Nepal.
One of the major airports in Southeast Asia, located in Bangkok, Thailand.
Located in Shenzhen, China, this airport connects with many international destinations.
Located in Chengdu, China, it serves as a significant hub for flights to and from Nepal.
Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, it is a major international gateway.
Located in Dubai, UAE, it is one of the busiest international airports in the world.
Located in Hong Kong, it serves as a significant international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A dominant group comprising various ethnicities including Bahun and Chhetri, traditionally considered the upper caste in Nepali society.
An ethnic group primarily found in the hilly regions of Nepal, known for their rich culture and traditions.
Indigenous people of the Terai region, recognized for their distinct language, culture, and lifestyle.
A Tibetan Buddhist ethnic group located mainly in the hilly regions, known for their unique traditions and customs.
Inhabitants of the Kathmandu Valley, known for their rich history, unique language, and vibrant festivals.
An ethnic group renowned for their mountaineering skills, residing primarily in the mountainous regions of Nepal.
An ethnic group popular for their history as soldiers and their distinct culture, residing mostly in the central hilly region.
Includes various smaller ethnic communities with unique cultures and languages spread throughout Nepal.
The Soul of Nepal
Discover the essence of Nepal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Nepal, drawing large crowds and featuring numerous local clubs and a national team.
Cricket has rapidly gained popularity in Nepal, with a growing fan base and the national team participating in international competitions.
Basketball is widely played in schools and colleges, with a vibrant community and ongoing local tournaments.
Volleyball is a popular sport, especially among women, with many local and national tournaments taking place.
Badminton is enjoyed by many in Nepal, both recreationally and competitively, with various clubs and tournaments.
Traditional sports like 'Dandi Biyo' and 'Mukna' are also played widely, reflecting the cultural heritage of the country.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Nepal offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan fare, especially in urban areas. Many restaurants and cafes provide dedicated menus or can customize dishes to accommodate these dietary preferences.
While traditional Nepali cuisine heavily features rice, some dishes may contain wheat-based elements. However, an increasing number of eateries now offer gluten-free alternatives, particularly in tourist-centric areas.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nepal with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nepal.